Teaching off the bike: difficult or fun?

Recently I received a question from an instructor on how to become a strong teacher off the bike. Due to surgery his ankle would be in plaster for a longer period, therefore teaching on the bike was currently not possible.

First of all I think that he shows passion for his teaching, as he still wants to teach even though he is not able to ride. Compliments!

Proper preparation is key..for every class you teach. But even more when you know you will teach the complete class off bike. You have to know your profile, your music, the correct heart rates you want your students to work at. Decide on your Energy Zone and set goals.

When prepared correctly you already havemany cues, tips and corrections you can provide to your participants. Provide your participant with a specific task right before you get off the bike. So you have specific checks you can do, to see if they perform your task in the right way.

Besides a decent class preparation there are a few other important factors.

Be able to use your Spinning® eye.

We talk about it in the Spinning® orientation, but do you really use it? The Spinning® eye is something you grow in to. Once you found your way in teaching Spinning® and you have become more relaxed in being in front of the class, the Spinning® eye will come naturally. You will see if some bodies shoe laces are loose, some ones water bottle is almost empty, some heart rates are too high (or too low), if the body and mind connection is there and so on. Again you will see, teaching off the bike is so much fun! So many things to say, to do when you walk around your group.

In addition note that every group has a different dynamic and energy.. this again provides you with new food for (off bike) teaching.

The last factor you might want to take a closer look at is an important one. Be sure of yourself! Don’t be afraid to get off the bike. You have so much knowledge. Many instructors tell me they feel a bit clumsy as soon as they stop riding and start walking around. My advice is to just get off that bike and start doing it. Even if your ankle is not in plaster ;) You will really become a stronger and better coach, as you are able to guide your students more individually and you will really see what they are doing on that bike.